Pediatric neck cysts and enlarged lymph nodes

What are pediatric neck cysts and enlarged lymph nodes?

The majority of neck masses in children are due to enlarged lymph nodes. The rest are comprised of benign, usually congenital, cystic malformations.

For the majority of children, enlarged lymph nodes are due to an infectious process (a recent flu or ear infection) and the glands gradually return to normal over a period of weeks.

Enlarged lymph nodes may also be caused by thyroid disease or rarely, by lymphoma.

What are the different types of pediatric neck cysts and enlarged lymph nodes?

• Branchial cleft cysts

• Cystic hygroma (CH)

• Dermoid cysts

• Thyroglossal duct cysts

• Other neck masses include cysts of the salivary glands, thyroid gland swelling or lumps – due to thyroid disease or cancer – and masses in the muscles of the neck.

How are pediatric neck cysts and enlarged lymph nodes treated?

Cysts may be asymptomatic in children, but most eventually enlarge, causing complications and requiring excision (surgery). Appropriate approaches and techniques vary according to the exact type, location and size of the cysts but for most, minimally invasive techniques are an effective cure.